Author's Notes: Time for some light romance. No, seriously. On a side note, because of FFNet's simple formatting I'm always faced with the dilemma whether to put a horizontal line to separate italic paragraphs or not. Ugh.
Two uneventful weeks have passed since the last pain-filled time.
Hayate and Vita returned safely back to the hospital, but the other Wolkenritters have long since sniffed out their little escapade. It didn't take a genius to realize an empty bed and the missing ill-humored voice. In fact, Hayate missed them by minutes after she left Nanoha's house. Later after she woke up, Zafira would inform her that Vita got a thunderous scolding by both Signum and Shamal and that they were that close to brandish weapons, but Vita kept unusually silent and absorbed all the abuse like a sponge. What's even more amazing was that she gave a full bow of apology to everyone in the family before finally walking away. Her unexpected change in attitude caught everyone by surprise, puzzling even the quiet guardian beast. When their anger subsided, Shamal had tried to ask exactly what happened during their short disappearance, but Vita wouldn't say anything except one line.
Ask Hayate.
Hayate later caught Vita during lunch and asked her why she didn't just tell the truth, but the red knight laughed and said,
"I don't actually know what really happened, since I wasn't there. If that's the case, then why would I tell something vague, knowing that it would only make everyone sad and angry? The matter's over after all. I'll be fine, Hayate, you just rest now."
She had been stunned to hear such mature words coming from Vita. Her wide-eyed stare made Vita fluster greatly before running away with a terribly embarrassed look on her face, but Hayate understood how hard it must have been for the proud little knight to just accept... everything. She smiled lightly at the great happiness welling in her heart.
My children have grown strong.
But because of the latest stunt she pulled, Hayate no longer have personal freedom. Her knights stayed by her side every day and second, sometimes in groups or pairs or ones but never away. While she was fine to be accompanied, there have been some hair-rising moments when the concerned Shamal offered to help in toilets during the first few days of Hayate's weakness. The commander had declined very tactfully, but she made a mental notice from then onwards to keep an eye on her nurse and caretaker. Shamal was law within the compounds of the hospital, and it would be terribly unwise to set her off carelessly like an unplugged grenade. Not unless she wanted to spend her life on bed forever.
Even Signum was riled up, her face scrunched into a worried frown every time she looked at Hayate. Such an open display of emotion from the quiet warrior was rare, if not downright unusual. When Hayate told her wryly that she didn't need to be so worried, Signum had worn a severe look on her face and explained just how deathly pale Hayate looked when she returned limp in Vita's arms. The commander winced, and since then made an actual effort to eat regularly to recover her health as soon as possible.
The swordsmaster was also the only one who confronted her about the obvious connection between her sudden leave and a certain brunette.
"Was it Nanoha?"
"It was my own choice, but yes. For her."
She hadn't lied, and in Signum in turn acknowledged her reckless decision under the condition that Hayate would never try something like that again. That was not something she could control, but Hayate promised, and the matter was over. Rein proved a lot harder to appease, especially since Agito and that deceitful little Reunion kept on fanning her anger, but the Unison Device had relented in the end. In fact, she came in on Wednesday night crying and apologizing, saying that it was her fault that Hayate suffered so much. Rein had known about Reunion's magic and asked for his help when Hayate was still depressed, but she had never wanted to cause her so much suffering. And so Hayate comforted the little fairy throughout the night and slept not a wink, and on more than one occasion wondered if this was some sort of a strategy to punish her. But it was a fond thought full of smiles.
But the one she worried most for was Shamal. Her fury would be comparable to that of a cold, vengeful blade carving sushi out of a pig, but at the same time she was just much too empathic. Shamal often reprimanded herself at fault for the smallest of errors and simply would not listen to anyone until the terrible guilt has passed. She would offer her help limitlessly and often worked to the brink of collapse unless Hayate forced her to rest. It was the same now. The healer spent time around Hayate whenever possible, worried at the slightest cough and attending to every need. And, when she thought Hayate wasn't looking, Shamal pinched the top of her left hand as if to tear off a piece of frustration and helplessness. Had she been a different mistress, Hayate could not, did not want to imagine what would have happened to the gentle woman's heart. Right now, Shamal needed her help.
So every night, Hayate would ask for Shamal and said,
"Tonight's a little cold. Could you hold me until I sleep?"
"Of course, Hayate."
It sounded and looked childish; a fact Agito never failed to remind, but Hayate didn't mind. Every night they would crawl into bed together, and Hayate hugged Shamal tightly as if to pass on those unspeakable words of comfort and warmth until she fell asleep. Sometimes Hayate would wake during midnight and listen to the soft, uncontrollable sobs beside her, wordlessly holding the blonde tighter.
She was a bad mistress.
"Why are you still here?"
"Because I saved your heart?"
"No, you left me there and prayed to god that I won't die, and don't you dare deny it. Seriously though."
Hayate's fingers danced lightly against the tens of hangers, trying to decide which dress she to wear. Pink? No wait, this was the one she bought for Signum; she would dress it on her one day. Eventually. How about light blue?
"… You know, it's pretty inhumane to be changing so cheerfully when you locked a totally innocent young boy in the toilet. And you didn't even finish your sentence. What do you want?"
Yes, the light blue would do. Now, to have a matching skirt, "I sincerely doubt that you were ever innocent, but putting that matter aside. You already know what I want to ask, so why waste my breath?"
Reunion muttered under his breath, "Too bad it wasn't your last," and replied, "No, I did not use my magic on the others the day you collapsed. Truth be told I don't know why I'm even alive, much less living in this house."
It was a good weekend. It has been three days since her discharge, and she finally had time to meet her certain someone. He has visited her a couple of times before in the hospital, but was successfully intimidated by the combined stares of all the Wolkenritters except Zafira. While everyone knew he was the epitome of pureness and innocence, it didn't help that Hayate wore only a thin white shirt and baggy pants underneath the blanket. That she was smiling seductively and caressing the first few buttons of her shirt almost caused him to be smashed out of the window by Vita, despite the fact that he really wasn't looking. Just begging really hard at Hayate to stop playing such scary jokes.
"I see," She paused, her train of thought disturbed by the possibility of a ground breaking murder happening in her house. That can't be good for anyone. If it had taken place elsewhere though…
"I. Hear. You."
Hayate shrugged, quietly ticking another box in her mental checklist. The boy had powerful abilities, but he could be tricked. She learned from the past few weeks that while Reunion's magic was powerful he almost never used it directly on a person, most likely because it ran a high risk for the subject and himself. What he usually does was to read the crumbs of emotions or 'words' leaking out of a person's mind, then interpret their thoughts and actions. In that case, as long as she thought out loud and clear there was a very good chance to deceive his senses. Or hiding an emotion behind another.
"So you did. Although I could guess that they weren't thinking quite right when they found me collapsed in front of your doorsteps. You are a kid. And –"
Oh fine, she'll just take another light blue. Her interest in cosplay was one thing, real life dressing was another, "– You are also our family. Don't forget that. Rein defended you, didn't she? So trust us a little more… brat."
Silence. Hayate finally finished changing her clothes, and looked confidently into the mirror. Today would be a very enjoyable day indeed. She picked up her handbag and headed for the door, but then slowed down as if forgotten something,
"And the toilet door was unlocked since ten minutes ago. My guess is that you're now holding a pail of water waiting impatiently for me to come close. Just who are you trying to fool?"
"How –"
Slam. Gotta love solid, wooden doors; they have such amazing sound effects. And sweet, sweet victory.
The central park of Cranagan was one of the main attractions untouched by the terrible wrath of Grey Christmas. While not entirely massive that it would encroach upon the people's living space, it was enough to take a busy person's mind off the bogs and falls of reality. A huge man-made fountain sprayed multitude streams of pure water, constantly soothing and refreshing people's hearts with a shower of natural coolness. Sitting on a bench placed directly beside the fountain was a pair of gorgeous looking couple, holding hands and playing a weird game that mysteriously drew the attention of all nearby visitors.
"Two."
"Three."
"Okay, two balls and one stick. Say it!" The woman shook her partner's arm like she would do to a broken twig. The young man panicked a little further and tried to pull, but it was a disastrous failure. He started begging,
"… Two please?"
"Double pink petals. Aw, Yuuno! So you want to know that badly huh? I guess I could…" She gave a witch's smile and deftly touched the collar of her shirt and unclipped one button, two…
The same trick worked twice, albeit it produced a totally opposite reaction from the surroundings. Men were swallowing down their saliva everywhere. Yuuno finally couldn't take it any longer and swept Hayate into his arms princess style, and ran. He didn't forget to glare down his girlfriend, but Hayate was laughing so hard that she didn't even notice. She tried to squeeze in a couple of words between breaths, "So you… finally got… pfft! Used to doing this huh? Haha!"
"Better than to stay and let you make things worse!"
There has been some disapproval from her family when Hayate first announced her date with Yuuno the day before. Shamal for one looked unusually dark, an eerie smile peeking from her teeth as she began reciting surgical tools with a nonchalance that could chill the living, and with Agito flying around shouting, "Sex! Sex! Seeeeeeex!" the already dampened mood quickly transformed into a pitch black aura that leaked of murder and blood thirst.
Hayate whipped out her staff skillfully and shut Agito up with a quick bind to the mouth. She then said calmly, "Everyone. I know you're still uncomfortable with Yuuno, and some of you might doubt his sincerity since we spent so little time together. I can assure you that they are utterly groundless fears."
She lowered her voice into a half whisper, asking their permission, "I love him, and I want to spend the rest of my life with Yuuno. From here on, and thereafter. So please… support me."
What else could they say?
"Yuuno. What do you think about Nanoha?"
The young man handed Hayate a can of coffee and popped his own, a questioning look in his eyes. Discussions about Nanoha have always been cheerful and reminiscent, but Hayate's attempt to sound casual was poor even to her own ears. She chose such a secluded spot in the park because the talk they're about to have were rather confidential, unsuited for the public's attention. Yuuno shrugged his shoulders and took a sip of coffee,
"Well, I guess I did like her once, but –"
Hayate smiled a little. Yuuno was giving her a last chance to back out of the discussion, but she needed to talk about this. He was the second after Rein to know about everything, or at least as much truth as she knew herself. It was ironic how everything to a person could mean nothing from another's point of view. Such was the way of life.
"No, that wasn't what I meant. I meant the her as of late. In the end… She didn't visit me after all," The brunette sighed while stretching.
"I would say that's a rather unfair statement. Didn't she send you messages?" Yuuno said.
Hayate raised an eyebrow, and placed a finger on the weak spot of his palm, reading to dig, "Oh? And how did you know? You couldn't have gone through my phone, could you?"
But Yuuno continued to drink his coffee calmly and replied, "No, of course not. I simply guessed. It wasn't a hard question."
"Hmph, you're right," Hayate sighed and chugged in her own drink, "It really wasn't a hard question. There was the battle before; she thought she would give it a little more time, find a better opportunity to make peace with the others…"
Yuuno frowned, "It wasn't just that. Hayate," He squeezed Hayate's hand a little tighter, those jade green eyes looking with terrible concern, "Don't be so reckless. Jumping off a cliff… you're making me worried all the time. The others too."
Hayate smiled gently and returned the squeeze, "I know, sorry to make you worried. C'mon," She pecked at his cheeks lightly, reassuringly, "Forgive me. Please?"
The young man reddened a little, but did not avert his eyes, "I guess I can, but… you're not going to promise me, are you?"
Hayate paused, a hint of conviction slipping into her words, "I'm sorry, but I won't apologize for the way I've acted. They were stupid and crazy and outrageous, but I would do it again if it meant saving Nanoha. Or you," she combed a leaf out of her hair and began examining it, "Or anyone who needed my big smack talk of the year. Such is the path I've chosen, no?"
"Hah… So it is," He emptied the can and threw it smartly into a nearby dustbin. His expression suddenly turned sad and he said painfully, "Nanoha was always so bright and cheerful. She smiled so well and strong despite the hardships, and yet… How did it turn out like this?"
"Perhaps it was our fault," She released the yellow leave, and watching it sank soundlessly to the earthen ground, "Nanoha's actions have always been transparent. Clear. Honest. Her actions were not a lie, but sometimes they were not a reflection of her true feelings. And we the idiots just accepted it, never noticing. Blindfolding our eyes from reality. That's why we couldn't understand what's really going inside her mind."
Hayate closed her eyes and thought regretfully for the millionth time: How could I have not noticed it earlier?
Yuuno squeezed her hand and pulled her back from the dwelling. Whenever she needed a touch, Yuuno was always right there with her. It was their way of supporting each other, to hold each other's hands, squeezing a bit to remind.
"Even now I find it hard to believe that this is Nanoha we're talking about. That incident was bad, but to change her like this... Really, just what had happened that day?"
Hayate shook her head, "I don't know much about what happened inside, only those official reports lodged in by Nanoha. That day I could only hear voices, and the screens were all static. Only she and Fate could tell us. They probably never will."
"Hayate…" Yuuno stood up and pulled her along. She leaned a bit at his shoulders, and dragged in a thankful breath. She really needed the change of scenery. Her eyes closed.
If only.
When she had opened them again, they were cocooned within a sea of blue, protected only by a thick sheen of glass. Aquatic organisms, different as they were from world to world have never ceased to amaze Hayate of their beauty and freedom. The sky might be wide and free, but they were always too empty for her as compared to the compact yet endless depth of ocean. The Marine Park was as amazing as usual. Hayate stared dazed in admiration at the wondrous blue world that was filled with life, hands reaching as if to touch a weird looking shark that above her, but there was a glass, and there was a world she cannot reach.
Once, I would have been able to touch it. The glass that isolates was meaningless and I could laugh and proudly declare so. But now…
"Yuuno…" Hayate leaned her full weight against her boyfriend, infinitely grateful for the strength he gave her, "Sometimes, just sometimes… I wish we were young again."
Once upon a time, when our prayers and feelings transcended the guilt of responsibility.
Yuuno smiled wryly, "Perhaps you didn't notice, but you are young. Very."
She threw a playful punch at his shoulder and grinned, "That's not what I mean, but thanks. I…"
Her right hand trembled slightly, and Hayate tried to will it stop. She had a bad habit of getting soft around people she trusted and loved, especially with Yuuno, and perhaps the aftereffects of Reunion's tampering haven't completely subsided. The latter felt it and wordlessly put strength into his own hand, soothing the tremors and bubbling emotions that threatened to surface. They have been together for many years, and yet Hayate still blushed at the increased physical contact, thinking just how lucky she was to have Yuuno.
"You're a bad habit, you know that?"
"Really," He raised an eyebrow, "Then how about treating me a little better from now on? You had your eyes closed since the park; doesn't that scare you when we're crossing roads?"
"No way and no, ferret boy. I once had an assignment here so I pretty much memorized all the routes here; you did well to choose the quickest and safest path. As for crossing the roads safe…" Hayate smiled sweetly and pushed a breast against his arm, "That's your responsibility, no?"
"Y-You're too close! I – Haa..." Yuuno gave up almost immediately and tried not to notice the demonic stares some people were giving him. If he hadn't managed to resist since fifteen, there's no reason to believe that he'll make it at thirty. At all. Hayate giggled at his never changing reaction, and sneaked another longing look at the endless blue. A ten meters wide octopus thing floated by idly without a care for the world.
She suddenly remembered, "Do you still remember the boy I asked you to research, Reunion?"
"The child you took in – That one?" His tone softened so that no one could eavesdrop on the conversation, but not too soft that Hayate could not listen. His time spent in the library taught him a lot about secrecy. Hayate nonchalantly pulled Yuuno around the amusement park with a happy face, but her words clearly do not coincide her current expression, "Yes. Have you found anything in the Infinity Library?"
"I did. Wait a second," Yuuno paused a bit to gather his thoughts before continuing, "Okay. I got a name and a vague concept, but nothing else. Do you want to wait longer or…?"
Her eyes darted around like a bouncing pin ball and at last found an empty bench. Gently breaking free from Yuuno, Hayate raced fifty meters forwards before plopping down on the seat with a happy sigh. The boyfriend could only look disapprovingly while buying two new cans of coffee, unconscious of his own actions.
Yup, she got him totally under control.
"It will do. In fact, that's more than I expected," Hayate crossed her legs elegantly and stared upwards towards the sea wrapped sky, seemingly searching for that soul's melody, "The name first, please."
Yuuno looked concerned for a second, but he held back the words of comfort and went straight to business. She looked as if she needed the… peace, "Okay, I found the information in a very old manuscript dated at least three thousand years ago. And even then, there was only a single page that briefly mentioned about a legendary magic said to be the purest among all."
Hayate suddenly felt a prickle on all of her fingers and she immediately recognized the signs. Not again. She curled a finger on her hair and began twisting. An icy snake began to nibble and swallow the back of her spine, but she bit her lips to forget the cold, "In the past, this Inherent Skill –supposedly extinct –was called Heart Seeker. Unless I've made a mistake, this is Reunion's power."
"Heart… Seeker." The shuddering whisper escaped her lips without Hayate even knowing it. Maggots now crawled on every inch of her skin and she couldn't help but shudder at the unnaturally realistic illusions. But she held. She forced herself to focus on Yuuno and Yuuno alone, and held on.
Something was obviously not right, but Yuuno acted as if he didn't notice and moved on, albeit on a much faster pace, "As its name would imply, this ability allows you to find and reach out to another being's heart or soul. The wielder basically knows everything about the person's life whose heart he touches. There's also a vague mention that a successful contract would allow the wielder to manipulate one's heart, but as to how –"
"Touch."
"Huh?"
Hayate felt the chills leaving her at last and sighed with obvious relief. The lingering nightmares of that night still haunt her sometimes, but they were much more bearable. And given enough time, even nightmares would fade to nothing. Confidence rekindled in her voice as she answered Yuuno energetically, "Through touch, and perhaps something like mutual recognition. That is the contract. We shook hands after I gave him a name."
"Hmm, I see," Hayate observed of the sagging of his shoulder and the fading tension from his voice, and determined that it was more of an expression of relief than an actual acknowledgment of her statement. So, he knew that she was going through one of those 'daydreams' again, but chose not to interfere with her inner battle. Hayate couldn't help but smile. As usual, she could hide nothing from him, as he had never once doubted her, "But the condition of this contract sounds too easy. Just physical contact and it's done? Why wasn't this magic more er, known?"
"Because it is a curse."
"Huh?" Hayate surprised both herself and Yuuno, but her reasoning caught up quickly with the instinctive reply.
"This magic itself is a double-edged sword; sooner or later it ruins both the wielder and the wielded. Just like a curse," Hayate replied softly, "Heart Seeker... Reunion made my heart whole when I was losing hope. I thought he healed my wounds, my fears, my demons, but no. He simply made me stronger, made me blind to certain emotions so that I could face them without wavering. But once he cancels the contract my heart recognized those emotions and could not accept it… broke."
She raised a hand. It was trembling like a leaf, "This. This is proof. Kinda like drugs, really. Lose it and the world crashes while old and new wounds alike stab you so hard you wish you were dead. The shock alone was probably enough to do just that. I can't believe –"
Hayate stopped sharply, and this time Yuuno did not hesitate to embrace her into his arms and kept still. She accepted the warmth wholeheartedly, and only then she realized just how weakened she felt. How weary and scared.
But even so, I still…
"Hayate, are you really okay living with Reunion?"
She turned to look at Yuuno. Sincere worry and concern shone out of his eyes exactly the same as eighteen years ago, and with passing age etched a hardened determination into his face. It was a resolve to reject his own belief for the sake of someone else. For her. A budding sadness dug deeply into her heart, but Hayate shelved it away and leaned deeper against his chest,
"Mm…! You're warm as usual."
"Hayate?"
"Your girlfriend is strong, Yuuno. Perhaps I do feel a bit scared, unsure even now whether my feelings are real or just engineered to be real, but even so, Reunion is –"
"– Your family." He helped finished her sentence, and hugged her tighter. Yuuno was still afraid for her sake, but he believed in Hayate as well. She smiled brightly as if to cast away the last vestiges of fear,
"That's right. And families care for each other equally, no? Well, there's a lot of discipline I'll need to kick into the brat's head, but he's still young, and he understands. So someday, maybe... No. I'll definitely let him live a normal life."
They stayed that way for quite some time, looking and occasionally pointing at a certain crowd of colorful fishes, until Hayate heard a sudden murmur into her ears,
"... This is exactly why I love you so much."
Her entire face boiled red in a second, and she quickly turned around to face Yuuno looking incredulously happy, "W – What did you just say?"
"N – Nothing." He stuttered and looked away, but Hayate would have none of it. She forcefully grabbed hold of his face and turned it,
"Ow! My neck, what are you doing?"
"I command you to repeat that phrase immediately!"
To which Yuuno smirked knowingly, very determined to be the winner this time, partially motivated by the creaking pain burning his neck, "And what was it do you want to hear? Perhaps a massage would work out the answer…"
Hayate's eyes narrowed. She let go coolly, and with an imperious voice demanded, "Alright then. Wallet."
"No."
"Phone."
"No."
"Car keys."
"Just no!"
"Me."
"No, no, no – Wait a second –" Then he realized his mistake, but it was already too late.
"I see," Hayate flipped open her communicator and immediately dialed for Shamal, her legs already beginning the flight away from Yuuno, "So, the great Archeologist and Chief Librarian of the almighty Infinity Library has finally decided to dump me. I don't mind it. I really don't."
Panic crept into his voice as he began chasing after the escaping Hayate, but she was too damn slippery and blended perfectly into the crowd, "It was just a joke! A joke! And you tricked me! Hayate, who are you calling?"
"Oh, no one in particular. Just a certain doctor whom I would like to cry this terrible, terrible injustice on. Ah, it's connected. Hello? Shamal…"
Yuuno turned for the emergency exit and ran, but he suddenly fell unceremoniously to the ground as a reappearing Hayate timed and tripped him perfectly into a somersault. There was the unmistakable glint of wickedness in her eyes as she smiled infinitely cheerful at her trembling boyfriend,
"You are not getting away from me."
Forever.
Night. An otherworldly realm of tranquility and silence that enveloped all in equal embrace deeper than light. Humans have long since learned to use fire to combat this ghastly mist that blinded all sight, and as they evolved certain places was no longer casted in darkness.
But there were far more shadows under the light than there were glows under darkness. Far, far more.
And now one such shadow crawled ever so quietly behind her unsuspecting victim, fangs and claws and fake blood dominant in the arsenals of doom, and she crawled oh so quietly –
"Hayate. You would make a great storyteller if you don't add yourself in it. Don't even try."
"Ceh, spoilsport. And I was so looking forward to use this taser too…" She flashed out the item casually, and Yuuno jumped two steps away from Hayate as if repelled by an impenetrable shield. His footing was rather unsteady, and he almost fell down into a nearby drain.
"W-w-where did you get that thing?" Yuuno's voice came out a terrified squeak that he could not control; his nerves totally jarred from the terrifying chase Shamal gave him before. Of course he didn't expect the medic to actually show up, and to actually be incited by Hayate… Was she having a period?
Then Yuuno remembered the needle, and immediately killed off the thoughts. It was entirely unscientific and realistically impossible for Shamal to read his mind – Not to mention that she went back for an emergency surgery – but just to be one hundred percent sure. Yeah.
"I bought in on Earth of course. Over there I can't exactly blast bad guys with magic, so this was to compensate for my protection."
"Hahaha… I feel terrible for those who stalks you…" She wore an innocent look on her face, but Yuuno easily saw the devil smirking from behind that mask. But there would be even more consequences if he doesn't man up and hold her hands now, so he sucked in a deep breath and jerkily reached for her right, and clasped.
Hayate looked satisfied and slipped the device back into her bag. She then looked upwards to the sky and began savoring twinkling colors called stars that illuminated the world.
Night.
Ten minutes was the distance between their slow walk to Hayate's home. Neither wanted their precious date to end so quickly, to be reminded of the duties and responsibilities that kept them apart. The night was young, but their time was not. For them, time was expiring.
"Neh, Yuuno."
"Yeah?"
"Have you ever wondered why we are still together?"
Yuuno pondered the question, not understanding as he asked, "Because we love each other?"
That got him another light punch to the body as Hayate blushed, "Don't answer for me, idiot! I mean I do love you, but…"
The dark thought slithered roots into her mind, and her face was solemn once more, "Don't you think that it's strange? I can count with one hand the dates we go in a year. Relationships aren't supposed to work that way."
There was a look of apprehension on Yuuno's face, and he began shaking his head wryly to Hayate's surprise. The walk slowed to a turtle's crawl as he smiled gently, "You may be right. That will be the case for many people, but..."
He stopped there with a thoughtful look, and Hayate felt annoyance. It had been a serious question that could significantly impact their relationship, but Yuuno didn't even look remotely shaken. If possible, he looked calmed by her doubts. Just as she was about to speak her irritation, Yuuno suddenly asked, "Hayate. What do you think about our relationship?"
"I asked you a question first!" She didn't bother to hide her emotions. Yuuno merely smiled and tried again, "Of course I'll answer you, but first I need to know your thoughts. You don't want a half-hearted reply, do you?" Her defense crumbled against his logic, but she kept on a tight face and didn't speak for quite a while.
Five minutes passed, and she finally let out a sigh before shooting a piercing stare at her boyfriend. He simply glanced at her with a knowing look on his face, and she finally replied, "You and I are busy. Always busy. I am commander of a unique counter unit, and you the head librarian of the greatest library in the world. Let's admit it: These aren't the greatest job to find a stable relationship."
"We didn't choose our occupation by chance either, did we? You discovered that the Infinity Library was your home, and I found the military as a way of atoning for my sins. Even if our jobs meant a degree of loneliness and separation with loved ones, we are content. Satisfied. I know I am."
Hayate hesitated, "So maybe I enjoy my private space more than I thought. Occasionally I would love company, kind of like sudden craving for sweets, but sometimes I wished to be alone. If I have to eat them every day I probably could not stand it. I never had this problem with my family because of their respect for me as their mistress, hence a measure of distance, but you are different. Maybe…"
She unconsciously pulled at her sleeves as if to tear against the demonic doubts, "Maybe if we were never librarian or commander, if we have lived our lives normally, we will not be together. Maybe we're together because it just happened to be convenient. And even if we are together, I would grow bored of you, tired of you, make excuses to keep you apart…"
"You and I are just too independent. We could live without relying on anyone… and certainly without each other too."
Hayate's head stooped down a bit, not daring to look at Yuuno's expression. It had sounded too much like a request to break up. He stood very still and unmoving, and when he let go of her hand she flinched instinctively –
– And felt Yuuno draping his brown coat over her shoulders. Surprised, she forgot her fear turned to look, but he simply smiled at her and said, "It's cold, isn't it?"
"Eh, yes. Thanks." She fumbled a little, but her bearings returned all almost too quickly. She still felt chilled, but this time it came from the heart. Why wasn't he answering? Was she right on the mark after all?
Pok.
There was a light knock against her head, and Hayate looked at Yuuno in surprise. Again. This time he frowned slightly and spoke, "You really mean every word, don't you? And you're telling me that Nanoha's the one who's dense?"
"What!" She grew indignant and was about to bite back, but Yuuno cut her off swiftly with a totally unexpected flavor of surprise,
"My first true crush was Hayate Yagami. I first noticed this when I was nine, just right before we sent off Reinforce."
Hayate's jaws fell wide open. Yuuno leaned against a lamp post and motioned her to do the same, and in the midst of disbelief and embarrassment she just followed without a question.
"At that time I didn't understand about my own feelings, and I thought Nanoha was the one I wanted to be together with. So when I saw this brave girl pushing her wheelchair uphill with everything she got for Reinforce; someone whom she didn't even know until the day before, I felt really surprised and confused. It was snowing pretty heavily, and yet she rushed here with absolutely no heed of her own health. Very reckless."
"It happens that everyone in our group is crazy one way or another, you know," Hayate said sarcastically.
"I really didn't understand that sudden warmth blooming in my heart," Yuuno thoroughly ignored her jab and continued, "I thought, like everyone else, that I was just moved by the strong bonds and belief you shared with Reinforce, but it wasn't. I was just utterly fascinated by this strong girl, for the unconditional trust and love she would give to others despite her own misfortunes."
Hayate wondered why was it so hot all the sudden. Must be the coat; there could be no other explanation.
Yuuno was far from finished, "The first time I truly recognized my feelings though was the moment Nanoha woke up from her coma, eighteen years ago. It was rather ironic, really. On one hand I prayed very hard that she would wake up and smile again. On the other, I held an anonymous fear that gnawed at my heart for many sleepless nights with no relief in sight. I dreaded every moment since Shamal reported her eventual awakening, but I couldn't understand why."
"She woke up. It was a very sunny afternoon, and Fate was holding Nanoha's hand talking about daily life as usual. I was dozing off on a nearby chair trying to catch some sleep, and suddenly the room was silent. Fate began screaming Nanoha's name, and I fell off my seat trying to scramble to her side. I quickly grabbed one hand with both, and Fate the other. Then Nanoha opened her eyes."
With a casualness that Hayate did not expect, Yuuno stated simply, "She said 'Fate'. It took me a few seconds to comprehend, and at that moment I was finally released from the biggest torture in my life. No words could describe the enormous relief I felt, that the demon that plagued for many months was finally gone. And since then, I found out that the one I truly wanted to be together with was… you."
But Hayate's thoughts were focused on what happened after Nanoha awoke. Amidst the chaotic torrent of friends and family that that came to visit Nanoha, Hayate alone had slipped quietly out of the room so as not to burden the just awakened brunette with unnecessary banter. Thankfully the lift here reached up to the rooftop of the hospital, or she would've needed to either try magic or asked someone else's help to push her up. Both were situations that she was inclined to avoid.
Therefore she was surprised when she saw a young boy clad in green asleep behind the shadow and well hidden from the glaring sun. When she went up for a closer look; slowly pushing her wheelchair forwards so as to not disturb his sleep; she immediately recognized Yuuno Scrya as one of Nanoha's friends that was involved in the Book of Darkness Incident. They never really talked much as Yuuno preferred to just stand by and watch the girls chat, maybe throwing in a comment or two but no more. It got her curious to be able to see a different side of this quiet, gentle boy, and so she had moved towards him for a closer look.
"Hmm, he looks really girlish, but I guess that's what you call handsome?"
Hayate had both hands supporting under her chin as she leaned in closer to take a look. Up till now the only sleeping faces that she saw were the Wolkenritters, and she has never seen a boy's. Perhaps that's why she felt her heart fluttering for Yuuno with no apparent reason. There was an innocence and childishness that she really loved to see from these defenseless faces, as if she could regain something she never have since very young.
The thought didn't sit well. She slowly pulled back to her seat and prepared to return downstairs, but not before casting one last gaze at the sleeping Yuuno. Her lips curled into a light smile, and she whispered, "Sleep well. Goodbye."
His eyes flickered open. Pure green orbs pierced deeply into her soul, and she froze like a caught rabbit. Yuuno mumbled,
"Hayate…? So… pretty…"
And he closed his eyes and fell right back to sleep. Yuuno must have been really tired, but that was beside the point. Did he just call her… pretty? Her heart was racing so hard that she feared it would stop. Hayate quickly escaped from the scene, but the conflicting emotions boiling inside her heart didn't subside until a very long time.
Warmth wrapped around her right hand, and Hayate saw clearly that Yuuno's palm was gently holding hers. She didn't resist, but she didn't turn around either. He had certainly proved his point that they fell for each other way back when they were just kids, that it was a normal life that first tied them together. But still she wasn't convinced. It still doesn't explain how they managed to stay together with minimal contact, or the possibility that their current relationship was really because of convenience. Hayate knew that it was unsightly and immature to be feeling so insecure, but she couldn't help the fear pounding through her veins.
The boyfriend sensed the distraught clear as day, and sighed. Hayate could be very, very stubborn with herself sometimes, but she almost never revealed her feelings because she didn't want to impose on others in any way, so it was a good thing that she's confessing now. Yuuno was determined to lift at least this one burden from Hayate's shoulders.
"A year after that, I asked you out. Remember?"
"… As if I could forget." She muttered ill-naturedly, but already her tone has softened to the point that it wouldn't hurt. Yuuno couldn't resist a big smile and continued,
"So I admit. I never knew I could be such a nervous wreck when it comes to love. Asking you out was the easy part, but after that… it was just one screw up after another. Everywhere we go bad luck plagued our backs like mosquitos that just won't disappear. I mistook the wrong house, dropped my wallet, missed the bus, dropped an ice cream on your dress, which in turn caused us to be late for the movie –"
"Yuuno, if you're trying to make me feel better, it's not working."
He laughed, "Okay, you're right. Let's skip the minor details. The thing is, after all that's happened, I must say that I really gave up. I was considering digging myself a grave and just sleep in there unto eternity after all those blunders. I knew for certain that once we parted I would never see you again, unless it was a friendly gathering of sorts. "
"But then you stopped me gently, and said the most incredible things I will never forget. Do you remember, Hayate?"
A Yuuno looked like he was barely holding back the angry tears, unable to forgive himself for messing up what would've been a wonderful and memorable day for the both of them. But he held on strongly so as not to embarrass her in public and asked quietly to walk her home. The solemnity in his tone suggested that this was the last time Yuuno would never see her again, and Hayate didn't want that. It was really painful to watch him suffering like this, and there was still something important he didn't say.
So she told herself that she needed to do something and grabbed his hands. Big, warm hands that reminded of the sun, "It's just a bad day, Yuuno. Forget about it."
Yuuno's mask cracked a little, and he quickly bowed his head to hide a tear, "I'm sorry," His voice thick with regret, "I gave you a bad memory today, and I can't change that. But I'll promise you this at least. I will not trouble you any –"
Pok.
"Yuuno." She stopped him firmly with a light knock to his head, staring deep into his eyes as if to confirm her feelings. Hayate then clenched a fist for encouragement and muttered quietly to herself,
"Be a little braver… a little stronger."
"Hayate?"
"I had lots of fun today, Yuuno."
"What are you talking about? I –"
Hayate ignored him, "You mistook the wrong house, but that's because you were helping out an old lady to carry groceries. You dropped your wallet along the way because you were watching out for her while crossing the roads. You came late and we missed the bus, but thanks to that we get to walk together and talk a lot of things. You secretly borrowed money from Shamal in the house thinking I didn't notice, and bought me ice cream to apologize. Instead you dropped it right onto my dress, but it wasn't your fault, a naughty kid accidentally bumped your back. You immediately apologized afterwards and bought me a new double-sized ice-cream, didn't you? We were late for the movie, but it was just the first ten minutes. And oh," Hayate rubbed her own head sheepishly,
"Vita has been following you since yesterday, if you're wondering how I knew so much. I couldn't stop her, sorry."
Yuuno, predictably speechless, snapped out of his astonishment and began blabbering, "N-no, I er, you didn't need to be, er, sorry, I, I am the one who –"
Hayate pressed a finger against his lips, blushing a little at the softness of the contact. Yuuno himself looked like a steam cooker about to explode.
"Putting that aside, Yuuno," She let her arm down and said quietly, "I believe there's something you haven't tell me, right?"
The boy smiled weakly while feeling the same for his knees, "I – Yes, but –"
"I want to know," Her own voice barely above a whisper, "Please say it. You've been trying so hard for this, so don't… don't give up now."
"I – I…"
He drew in a deep breath. Exhaled. Yuuno returned Hayate's grip and mustered a lifetime's courage. He looked into those deep blue eyes, and said it.
"I really like you, Hayate. Can you… become my girlfriend?"
"… No."
He looked as if he was struck silly by a hammer. Hayate hid a grin and shook her head, repeating, "No. I would love to return your feelings, but you have to admit that despite everything, this date was still a big failure. So instead we're going to make a promise."
"A promise?" Correction. It was a flying bulldozer that hit him, and he totally forgot to shield.
"Yup. Promise me that you'll ask me out again, and make sure that the date goes well. And when the day's over, you could tell me your feelings one more time."
"… But whether you'll accept is still a question?" It sounded mixed with a hint of abandoned pride, but Yuuno did somehow get his wits back.
"You're pretty smart, aren't you?" She flashed him a devious grin, and for the first time Yuuno saw a glimpse of Hayate's secret world that she would tell no one but herself. A side so personal that even close friends and family see only once in a blue moon.
He would be a real ferret if he wasn't excited by the opening Hayate gave him. All his worries from before was blown away like a dream, and Yuuno said strongly, "I promise. I'll ask you out again and again until the day you accept my feelings. Then I'll continue dating you anyway, because I'll be aiming at a higher goal. Even boys have the wish to get married, you know?"
The return ball fried her brain hotter than a full tank of wasabis. But before she could cool down her electrocuted senses, Yuuno has already snatched the next move, "Now then, a promise has to be an agreement from both sides. You have told me your condition, and now it's my turn to propose… No?"
Intellectual debate. Knowledge. Reaction and flexibility. Get yourself together, Hayate! The girl prayed for rain to cool her head as she raised a burning face and replied, "O – of course. What is it?"
Yuuno said softly, "I want you to promise me that no matter what happens, you would not forget today. My failings, our promises, these feelings – Even those words you said to yourself."
She froze, "Words?"
"Be, a little braver," He tightened his hands, "A little stronger."
"You heard?"
"I did, and right now, your words, I want to..." Yuuno paused and stared intently at Hayate. He emanated with an aura of maturity that one shouldn't possess at the age of thirteen, but that was only if she measured from Earth's standards. Hayate felt herself pulled into a swirling chaos of emotions by puberty and Yuuno, but to her surprise she didn't mind it one bit at all.
She closed her eyes.
"… What is it?"
Their lips met, under the blessing of soaring winds and fading sunset.
Hayate woke up from her reverie, and found herself safe within the loving embrace of her dearest. Yuuno's chest felt so warm she could just sleep like this forever. That being said, she has absolutely no memory when the hugging happened, and so she pouted a little and mumbled,
"Hmph. You two-faced trickster. Fake four eyes. Ferret."
Yuuno grinned and held her tighter, "Just a little reminder."
And they said nothing more. The couple stayed cuddled and listened to each other's breathing quietly, peacefully, but her communicator suddenly beeped and Hayate reluctantly pulled free. She read the message and sighed, "Shamal. I should go back; it's already midnight. C'mon."
Hayate pulled at his hands, but surprisingly Yuuno did not budge but simply stood there like a statue. She asked enquiringly, "What's wrong?"
Yuuno's face suddenly broke into a cryptic smile. Without a word he suddenly leaned close and hugged her tightly, ignoring the tiny struggles and protests that squeaked out of his embrace. The Wolkenritter's wrath could wait later. He whispered into her ear,
"Hayate, I was thinking."
"Whatever you want to say, just let me go first, it's getting kind of hard to breathe –"
"Would you like to stay at my place tonight? No," He added firmly, "I want you to come with me. Please?"
One second passed. Then two. Finally comprehension ticked in, and she felt steam boiling on top of her head.
"What? But it's… I mean, the others…"
"Be, a little brave," Yuuno smiled teasingly, "A little stronger."
"… Damn you."
Hayate sent back home a reply, and ran alongside Yuuno with a heart light as feather.
[Playback complete. Saving record to permanent memory, event designated codename 'Love'. Next selected time year 0082 month 12 day 20 0000. Begin playback.]